2001 ASCFG Fresh Cut Flower of the Year
The ASCFG Fresh Cut Flower of the Year 2001 is Helianthus annuus 'Sunbright'. 'Sunbright' is a pollenless sunflower variety that grows 3 to 6 feet tall with rounded, golden yellow petals and brown center florets. 'Sunbright' flowers early on strong stems. 'Sunbright' is excellent for both field and greenhouse production. Direct sowing is recommended; however, transplants can be used to shorten production time in the field. While a final spacing of 4 x 5 inches is ideal, spacing can vary depending on the size of the flower head and branching desired. Dense spacing will yield a flower size of 5 inches and reduce side branching. Wide plant spacing will increase flower size. Excessive nitrogen, especially in summer, will cause plants to grow too vigorously with abnormal flower shapes.
Flowering time will be about 60 days in the summer in the field. Greenhouse production time ranges from 8 to 10 weeks, depending on temperature. During natural short days of winter, plants will flower more quickly with smaller discs on shorter stems. Cut stems when the flowers are 1/4 open with the petals perpendicular to the center disc. Late harvesting will result in reduced vase life. Flowers will last 7-14 days; especially if the stems are re-cut and the water is changed regularly.
Contact ASCFG at 440-774-2887 or www.ascfg.org for more information.